Gaelic Park hosts finals on a classic September Sunday

On a sun-splashed September afternoon with temperatures soaring into the 80s, Gaelic Park once again came alive as the New York GAA season edged toward its close last Sunday. The familiar sights and sounds of the day, trains rattling over the subway tracks and Seamus Smith’s unmistakable voice on commentary, set the stage for two eagerly anticipated county finals.

The day began with the JB2 Football Final, where Tyrone and Galway battled right down to the wire. In a contest full of heart and determination, Tyrone found the decisive edge to claim victory, securing bragging rights in a game that kept supporters gripped until the final whistle.

The Senior Football Championship followed, featuring a well-fancied Kerry side boasting talents like Eoin McElligott, Bobby Regan, and Liam Kearney. Despite the pedigree of their opponents, Cavan, fresh from last year’s Intermediate title, stepped up bravely to the challenge. While Kerry ultimately proved too strong in a one-sided affair, great credit is due to Cavan for their rise and resilience.

Adding a special layer to the occasion was the association’s “Blast from the Past” initiative, which welcomed back more than 80 players and coaches from the 1970s, 80s, 90s, and 2000s. The former greats were invited with complimentary admission to enjoy refreshments and camaraderie before the Senior Final, a reward for years of service to NYGAA. At halftime, they assembled at midfield for a memorable group photograph, a powerful reminder of the community’s deep roots. The initiative was hailed as a massive success, fulfilling its goal of reconnecting with generations who may have drifted away from Gaelic Park.

The atmosphere throughout the day was one of celebration and community spirit. The Railway Bar was buzzing, and with Oasis tracks echoing over the PA system before the Senior throw-in, young and old mingled in a festival-like setting. It was a day that showcased everything good about Gaelic Games in New York, heritage, passion, and togetherness.

For many, it also marked a refreshing change. In recent years, the community had felt disconnected or left behind, but Sunday proved that Gaelic Park can once again be the heartbeat of the Irish community in New York. With just two or three weekends left in the 2025 season, the finals served as proof that the GAA in New York is not only alive, it is being reborn, stronger and more welcoming than ever, with the Irish diaspora at its core.